Calendar of Activities

Upcoming Events

Conferences, UN forums and international days relevant to indigenous peoples and local community land and sea managers across the WIN community.

Wide cinematic view of a lush Pacific coastline at golden hour, teal ocean meeting a forested headland under a hazy sky, calm and reflective mood.

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Browse events by theme to quickly find what's relevant to your work and region.

09May

Fifteenth Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII15)

9 – 20 May 2016 · UN Headquarters, New York City · UN Forum

Annual UN forum advancing indigenous peoples' rights, development and cultural heritage.

22May

International Day for Biological Diversity

22 May · Global Observance

Recognises the role of biodiversity in sustainable development and community-led conservation.

23May

UNEP: 2nd Meeting of the UN Environment Assembly

May 2016 · UN Environment Programme

High-level gathering on emerging environmental policy and sustainable development.

31May

Trondheim Conference on Biodiversity: Food Systems for a Sustainable Future

May / June 2016 · Trondheim

Explores the links between biodiversity, food security and community-based stewardship.

05Jun

World Environment Day

5 June · Global Observance

Annual day for worldwide awareness and action for the environment.

09Aug

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

9 August · Global Observance

2016 theme: Indigenous Peoples and the Right to Education.

01Sep

IUCN World Conservation Congress 2016

1 – 10 September 2016 · Hawaiʻi, U.S.A.

Global gathering of conservation leaders, indigenous peoples and land and sea managers.

Past Engagements

Selected meetings and dialogues WIN members have participated in across recent years.

YearEventRole
2015UNFCCC-COP 21WIN Dialogue
2015UNCCD-COP12WIN participation
2015ABS Community ExchangeWIN participation
2015CBD Training WorkshopWIN participation
2015Permanent Forum on Indigenous IssuesWIN participation
2014World Parks CongressWIN participation
2014UN SIDS ConferenceWIN participation
2013UNCCD-COP 11WIN Dialogue
2013WIN ConferenceWIN convened

The World Indigenous Network connects land and sea managers from indigenous communities and local communities around the globe, fostering a shared space for exchanging knowledge and traditional practices. By linking people who work directly with nature, this network strengthens community-driven conservation efforts. Members share insights on sustainable resource management, climate resilience, and biodiversity protection. Through regional networks and global forums, participants learn from one another's successes and challenges. This collaborative approach helps preserve cultural heritage while addressing pressing environmental issues. The network serves as a vital platform for indigenous peoples and local communities to have their voices heard in international discussions about land stewardship and sustainable development.

International days and UN forums offer important opportunities for indigenous peoples and local community land and sea managers to engage with global policy discussions. These events bring attention to critical issues such as biodiversity conservation, climate change, and the rights of indigenous communities. Participation in these gatherings allows network members to share their experiences and traditional knowledge with a wider audience. The WIN community actively supports involvement in these international dialogues, recognizing that local perspectives are essential for effective global environmental governance. Such forums also provide spaces for networking, learning, and building solidarity among communities facing similar challenges across different regions of the world.

Knowledge exchange lies at the heart of the World Indigenous Network's mission. Community-driven solutions to environmental challenges often emerge from generations of experience living in harmony with nature. Through workshops, exchanges, and shared resources, network members learn practical approaches to sustainable land and sea management. These peer-to-peer learning opportunities help spread effective conservation practices across different ecosystems and cultural contexts. Traditional ecological knowledge combined with modern conservation science creates powerful strategies for protecting biodiversity and combating climate change. The network celebrates this diversity of knowledge and works to ensure that indigenous and local community voices shape the future of environmental stewardship worldwide.

The Equator Initiative and similar programs recognize the outstanding contributions of indigenous peoples and local communities to sustainable development and conservation. These initiatives highlight community-led projects that demonstrate how local action can address global environmental challenges. Award winners and grant recipients showcase innovative approaches to protecting forests, managing fisheries, restoring degraded lands, and building climate resilience. Such recognition brings visibility to the important work happening at the community level and inspires others to take action. The WIN community supports members in applying for these opportunities, helping to amplify their impact and connect them with partners who can support their conservation efforts.

Youth engagement is essential for the long-term sustainability of indigenous and local community land and sea management. Young people bring fresh energy, new skills, and innovative ideas to traditional conservation practices. The World Indigenous Network encourages youth participation through dedicated programs, exchanges, and mentorship opportunities. By connecting younger generations with experienced elders and knowledge holders, the network helps ensure that traditional ecological knowledge is passed down and adapted for contemporary challenges. Youth forums and fellowship programs provide platforms for young leaders to develop their skills, share their perspectives, and contribute to global discussions on climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.

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